Ask why
Discuss heavy periods, recent pregnancy, diet, gut symptoms, blood loss and medicines. Treating ongoing heavy bleeding is part of treating the iron problem.
Beyond 10 minutes · Free guide 01
So your iron is low. What next?
Girl to girl: replacing iron matters. Finding out why you keep losing it matters too.
Updated 12 October 2026 · Adult health education
Iron deficiency can happen before you become anaemic. A normal haemoglobin result does not, on its own, tell you that your iron stores are adequate.
Tiredness, headaches, palpitations, breathlessness, hair shedding, restless legs or craving ice can be clues. They can also have other causes. Bring your symptoms and actual results to your appointment.
Blood tests to discuss
Tests are chosen for your symptoms and medical history. This is a discussion guide, not a request for every test.
| Test | Why it may help |
|---|---|
| Full blood count (FBC) | Checks haemoglobin and blood cells for anaemia. |
| Ferritin | Estimates stored iron. Below 15 micrograms/L suggests absent stores; below 30 generally suggests low stores. Your clinician interprets this alongside your symptoms. |
| Iron studies, if needed | Transferrin saturation can help when ferritin appears normal despite suspected deficiency. Inflammation can raise ferritin. |
| Other tests, if indicated | B12, folate or coeliac screening may be relevant depending on your blood count, symptoms and history. |
Your next steps
Take your prescribed iron consistently
Follow your own prescription. Ferrous sulfate 200 mg once daily is a common adult regimen; if side effects are a problem, ask about alternate-day dosing or a different preparation.
Help absorption
Take on an empty stomach if tolerated, or with food if needed. Leave a 2-hour gap from tea, coffee, eggs and dairy. Ask a pharmacist about spacing from calcium, antacids and other medicines.
Keep food on your side
Include iron-rich foods such as beans, lentils, fortified cereals, meat or leafy greens. Food supports recovery but may not replace treatment when you are deficient.
Agree a follow-up plan
Ask when to repeat your blood count and iron markers, and how long to continue treatment. If tablets are not tolerated or are not working, ask whether further investigation or intravenous iron is appropriate.
Take these questions to your appointment
- What are my haemoglobin and ferritin results?
- What is causing the deficiency?
- How will we treat the cause as well as replace iron?
- When should I repeat my tests?
When to get help
Get urgent help for chest pain, severe breathlessness, collapse or major ongoing bleeding. Call 999 for a medical emergency.
Sources and further reading
- BSG: iron deficiency anaemia guideline (2021) ↗
- NHS: iron deficiency anaemia ↗
- NHS: taking ferrous sulfate ↗
- NHS: B12 and folate diagnosis ↗
Adapted from Doctor Barbara's educational content, with source-based updates. General information for adults; individual care, pregnancy and children's care need tailored advice. This guide cannot diagnose you or replace your healthcare professional.